Audix i5 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Description
Audix i5 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
The Audix i5 is a versatile dynamic microphone engineered to capture punchy, articulate instrument recordings with impressive clarity and presence. Built on a robust precision cast zinc alloy body with dent-resistant steel grill, it delivers reliable performance session after session. Its tight cardioid pickup pattern isolates your source effectively, reducing bleed in multitrack recording while maintaining focused midrange detail—essential for layering drums, amps, and brass in dense arrangements. The forgiving proximity effect lets you position close for intimate character or pull back for fuller tonality without losing definition.
Recording & Mix Integration
The 50 Hz – 16 kHz frequency response provides smooth, characterful reproduction across drums, guitar and bass amplifiers, and brass instruments, sitting naturally in most mixes. Rated to handle sound pressure levels in excess of 140 dB without distortion, this microphone captures hard-hit drums and cranked amps with exceptional headroom, giving you clean, undistorted tracks that integrate seamlessly into your final mix.
Durability & Studio Workflow
The durable black E-coat finish and gold-plated XLR connector ensure reliable signal transfer and longevity through intensive studio use. The gold-plated XLR connector resists corrosion and maintains clean signal path, while the included MC1 mic clip and P1 carrying pouch streamline mic placement and storage between takes.
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone for stage, studio, and broadcast applications
- Cardioid pickup pattern with Very Low Mass (VLM) diaphragm
- Frequency response: 50 Hz – 16 kHz
- Impedance: 280 ohms
- Sensitivity: 1.6 mV/Pa @1k
- Handles SPL in excess of 140 dB without distortion
- Precision cast zinc alloy body with dent-resistant steel grill
- Durable black E-coat finish
- Gold-plated XLR connector
- Includes MC1 mic clip and P1 carrying pouch
- Designed, assembled, and tested in the USA
The i5 is an essential tool for producers and engineers building professional recordings, offering the versatility to capture everything from kick drums to snare cracks to guitar cabs with consistent, articulate response across your studio sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | United States |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Audix i5 delivers punchy, articulate midrange detail across a wide range of sources—drums, guitar amps, brass—with a presence peak that sits naturally in dense mixes. Its tight cardioid pattern and 140+ dB headroom let you record aggressive instruments and loud sources without distortion, while forgiving proximity effect lets you work close for color or step back for fullness. Precision cast construction and USA assembly make it a dependable, versatile choice for home-studio recording and multi-source sessions.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Classical
- – Intimate Vocals
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What instruments and sources work best with the i5?
The i5 excels on snare drums, guitar amps, brass sections, and other aggressive sources in rock and metal settings. Its 50 Hz–16 kHz frequency response and punchy midrange character are designed for these applications; it is not recommended for intimate vocals, jazz, or classical work.
Can the i5 handle loud sources without distorting?
Yes. The i5 is rated to handle sound pressure levels in excess of 140 dB without distortion, making it ideal for close-miked drums, cranked amplifiers, and other high-output sources.
What's included, and what do I need to get started?
The i5 ships with an MC1 mic clip, P1 carrying pouch, and gold-plated XLR connector ready for standard mic cables and audio interfaces. You will need an XLR cable and a preamp or interface with mic-level input to complete your setup.
How does the cardioid pattern help during live performance or recording?
The tight cardioid pickup pattern isolates your source and rejects sound from the sides and rear, helping your instrument cut through a dense mix and minimizing bleed from other stage or studio sources.
Is the i5 suitable for beginners, or is it only for professionals?
The i5 is versatile across skill levels—beginner through professional—and rewards good mic technique. Its forgiving proximity effect and durable, straightforward design make it approachable for newer users while delivering the articulation and headroom that professionals demand.